Why do I have a dark oval line above my new belly button after tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

I noticed it before I was ever in the sun. I do not remember if it was there right after surgery. I did not take pictures at beginning. I was not in the sun before I noticed. It feels like rough dry skin.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

The dark oval line above your new belly button after a tummy tuck could be due to a few reasons:

1. Post-surgical Hyperpigmentation: This is a common side effect of surgery where the skin darkens in the area of the incision. This can occur as a response to inflammation caused by surgery.

2. Scar Tissue: The dark line could be scar tissue forming after the surgery. This can sometimes appear darker than the surrounding skin.

3. Healing Process: It may be part of the healing process, where blood vessels are healing and new skin is forming.

4. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This occurs when a wound or irritation, like a surgical incision, causes an increase in skin pigment production.

5. Keloid or Hypertrophic Scar: These are thick, raised scars that can form after surgery and can be darker than the surrounding skin.

6. Suture Reaction: If the dark line is exactly where the sutures were placed, it could be a reaction to the sutures.

The rough, dry skin could be due to the healing process and formation of new skin. It's important to keep the area moisturized and protected from the sun, as it can exacerbate the darkening.

However, it's highly recommended that you consult with your surgeon or a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may suggest treatments such as creams, laser treatments, or other procedures to help lighten the area, if necessary.

Please note that this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

Why do I have a dark oval line above my new belly button after tummy tuck? (Photos)

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